Program Overview

Introduction to the Natural Resources Program

The Natural Resources Program is a diverse and comprehensive program that offers students a wide range of courses and specializations. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in natural resources and to prepare them for careers in this field.

Program Requirements

The Natural Resources Program requires students to complete a minimum of 12 credits of lab biology, which covers cellular, plant, and animal biology. The recommended series is BI 204, BI 205, and BI 206, but other courses such as BI 101, 102, 103, and BI 211, 212, 213 are also accepted. Students must also complete CH 121 Introductory Chemistry before taking BI 205 and BI 206.

Specializations

The Natural Resources Program offers several specializations, including:

• Ecological Restoration
• Fish and Wildlife Conservation
• Forest Ecology
• Urban Forest Landscapes
• Wildland Fire Ecology
• Conservation Law Enforcement
• Human Dimensions
• Policy and Management
• Integrated Conservation Analysis

Coursework

The program requires students to complete a range of coursework, including:

• Biology: BI 204, BI 205, BI 206, BI 370
• Chemistry: CH 121
• Economics: AEC 250, ECON 201
• Forestry: FES 240, FES 342, FES 365
• Wildlife Management: FW 251, FW 323, FW 325, FW 340, FW 350
• Earth Science: GEO 101, GEO 201, GEO 221, GEOG 102
• Soil Science: CSS 205
• Sustainability: SUS 103, SUS 350
• Environmental Policy: PS 475
• Recreation Resource Management: TRAL 251, TRAL 352, TRAL 493

Advising and Planning

Students are assigned an academic advisor who guides them through the program. The advisor helps students plan their coursework, choose specializations, and prepare for graduation. Students are expected to read the Student Advising Guide, review course descriptions, and plan their coursework carefully.

Double Counting Courses

The program allows students to double count certain courses between the Baccalaureate Core and the Natural Resources major. However, no double counting is allowed within the Natural Resources major requirements or specialization options.

Accelerated Master's Platform

The program offers an Accelerated Master's Platform, which allows students to complete a master's degree in a shorter amount of time. Students can also participate in internships, projects, and study abroad programs to gain practical experience and broaden their knowledge.

Careers in Natural Resources

The Natural Resources Program prepares students for a wide range of careers in natural resources, including:

• Conservation and management of natural resources
• Environmental policy and planning
• Sustainability and environmental education
• Wildlife management and conservation
• Forestry and forest ecology
• Urban forestry and landscapes
• Wildland fire ecology and management

Conclusion

The Natural Resources Program is a comprehensive and diverse program that offers students a wide range of courses and specializations. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in natural resources and to prepare them for careers in this field. With its emphasis on advising, planning, and practical experience, the program helps students achieve their academic and professional goals.